Finicky Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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finicky

[ˈfɪnɪki ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

behavior

Showing or requiring great attention to detail; hard to please; fussy.

Synonyms

choosy, fussy, particular, picky, selective.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
finicky	Describes someone who is overly concerned with minor details or exactness, often used to describe people who are hard to please. He's so finicky about his food that he carries his own condiments. The finicky artist insisted on using a very specific shade of blue.
fussy	Describes someone who is difficult to please and often upset about small or unimportant things; this word can carry a mildly negative connotation. The child is so fussy that he won't eat anything green. She's fussy about the way her books are arranged on the shelf.
picky	Describes someone who is very selective and hard to please, usually carries a negative or slightly pejorative connotation. She's extremely picky when it comes to dating, rejecting anyone who doesn't meet all her criteria. The picky eater would only eat plain pasta with no sauce.
particular	Used to describe someone who is concerned with satisfying specific preferences or standards; can be neutral or mildly negative depending on context. He's very particular about his coffee and won't drink it unless it's freshly ground. She's particular about her work environment, insisting on a clean and organized desk.
choosy	Indicates a person who makes careful choices and is selective, generally used in a more neutral or positive context. She's quite choosy about the clothes she buys, only opting for sustainable brands. Being choosy about friends can lead to deeper and more meaningful relationships.
selective	Conveys a method of careful selection based on specific criteria, usually in a more neutral or positive context. The hiring manager is very selective, ensuring only the best candidates are considered. He's selective about which projects he takes on, focusing on those that align with his values.

Examples of usage

She is known for being finicky about her food.
The CEO is very finicky about the design of the new product.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

mechanical

Tending to be difficult to operate or work with; requiring careful handling.

Synonyms

problematic, sensitive, temperamental, tricky, unpredictable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
finicky	Describes someone or something that is excessively particular or demanding about details or choices. She is so finicky about her food that it's hard to cook for her He is a finicky editor who insists on perfection in every sentence
temperamental	Describes someone or something that has unpredictable or changeable moods, often used in a slightly negative sense. The temperamental artist would sometimes cancel shows last minute The old car is temperamental and doesn't always start
problematic	Describes something that presents difficulties or problems and is hard to deal with. The new policy is problematic because it doesn't consider long-term effects Getting to the meeting on time can be problematic with this traffic
tricky	Used for something that is difficult to handle or deal with, often requiring skill or careful attention. Solving this puzzle is tricky because of its complexity Interviewing a celebrity can be tricky due to their busy schedules
sensitive	Used for something or someone that is easily affected by external factors or emotions, often requiring careful handling. He's very sensitive and takes criticism to heart The equipment is sensitive to changes in temperature
unpredictable	Describes someone or something that is not consistent and can change suddenly, making it hard to forecast or prepare for. The weather in this region is extremely unpredictable Her behavior is unpredictable, which makes it difficult to work with her

Examples of usage

The finicky old printer always jams.
The finicky lock on the door needs to be jiggled just right.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Being finicky can be linked to traits like perfectionism, where individuals seek the ideal in every situation.
Research shows that some people are finicky due to heightened sensory sensitivity, making them more selective about their environment.
Finicky behavior might stem from anxiety, leading individuals to be overly cautious about their choices.

Pop Culture

'Finicky' characters are often portrayed in films and books as humorous or neurotic, highlighting their quirks.
Comedian Jerry Seinfeld often touches on topics of finicky people in his routines, reflecting everyday frustrations.
In many cartoons, finicky pets or children are shown turning their noses at food, amplifying their pickiness for comedic effect.

Culinary

In cooking, a finicky eater may refuse to try new dishes or reject ingredients they don’t recognize, affecting meal choices.
Many restaurants offer finicky menus, allowing diners to customize their meals to suit very specific tastes.
Food critics can sometimes be viewed as finicky, as they often expect a perfect experience with every dish they review.

Literature

Finicky characters often appear in classic literature to satirize social norms or human behaviors, such as in Jane Austen's works.
Authors use finicky traits to develop character depth, showing how obsessive behaviors influence relationships.
The use of finicky protagonists can lead to comedic situations, amplifying themes of control and spontaneity.

Origin of 'finicky'

Main points about word origin

The word 'finicky' comes from the 19th-century 'finik', an informal term implying excessive fussiness.
Its origin is thought to be a blend of 'finicky' and the word 'fin', which means delicate or intricate.
Initially used in American English, the term hints at a quirky or overly careful attitude.

The word finicky originated in the early 19th century, derived from the word 'fine' with the suffix '-icky'. Originally used to describe someone who was excessively particular or fastidious, it has since evolved to encompass a broader range of meanings relating to being hard to please or operate.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,539 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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33536 hummocky
33537 dulcet
33538 trig
33539 finicky
33540 miffed
33541 parterre
33542 coddling
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